Arthur Percival
English General and Singapore Defender
Served as a British Army officer, particularly during World War II. Commanded the garrison in the defense of Singapore against Japanese forces in 1942. Surrendered to the Japanese, marking the largest capitulation in British military history. After the war, held various posts in the British military and contributed to post-war military planning. Authored accounts of military strategy and operations in his later years.
Led the defense of Singapore in 1942
Surrendered to Japanese forces
Served in British military after WWII
Other People Born on December 26th
Raja Pervaiz Ashraf
Politician and former Prime Minister of Pakistan
Born
December 26th, 1950 75 years ago
Served as the 17th Prime Minister of Pakistan from June 2012 to March 2013. Prior to this role, held positions as Minister for Water and Power and was active in the Pakistan Peoples Party. Oversaw government operations during a challenging economic period.
Continue ReadingEden Sher
Actress best known for 'The Middle'
Born
December 26th, 1991 34 years ago
An American actress gained recognition for the role of Sue Heck in the television series 'The Middle.' The series aired from 2009 to 2018, focusing on a working-class family in Indiana. The character, Sue, represented the underdog and resonated with viewers through her quirky, lovable nature. Sher's performance earned her critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, solidifying her place in television comedy. Additionally, Sher appeared in other shows, including 'Good Trouble' and provided voice work for animated series. Her career began in local theater productions before transitioning to television and film.
Continue ReadingBrandon Scherff
American football offensive guard, Pro Bowler
Born
December 26th, 1991 34 years ago
An American football offensive guard, earned recognition in the National Football League (NFL) for exceptional performance. Played college football at the University of Iowa before being selected in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Washington Football Team. Established a reputation as a formidable player on the offensive line. Achieved Pro Bowl selections for multiple seasons, showcasing consistency and skill in protecting quarterbacks and creating opportunities for running backs. Joined the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022, continuing a professional career that highlighted contributions to team success.
Continue ReadingAhmed Barusso
Ghanaian footballer and midfielder
Born
December 26th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional footballer, played primarily as a midfielder. Transitioned through several clubs in Europe and Africa. Represented the Ghana national team at various levels, contributing to international tournaments. Played a significant role in club competitions, bringing experience from various leagues.
Continue ReadingYohan Blake
Jamaican sprinter with Olympic medals
Born
December 26th, 1989 36 years ago
Achieved global recognition as a sprinter specializing in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Claimed a bronze medal in the 100 meters and a silver medal in the 200 meters at the 2012 London Olympics. Won the 100 meters title at the 2011 World Championships in Daegu, setting a personal record of 9.92 seconds. Has also been part of the Jamaican relay teams that have won gold medals in major international competitions.
Continue ReadingAleksej Pokuševski
Basketball player with NBA experience
Born
December 26th, 2001 24 years ago
Born in Serbia, a professional basketball player, primarily played as a center and forward. Entered the NBA after being selected 17th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Gained attention for unique skill set and versatility on the court. Started professional career in Serbia before moving to play in Greece, where contributions helped the team win matches and showcasing high potential. In NBA, recognized as one of the promising young talents, known for all-around gameplay including scoring, rebounding, and passing.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 31st
Dorothea Tanning
American painter and sculptor of surrealism
Born
August 25th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2012 14 years ago — 101 years old
Contributed significantly to the surrealist movement, creating distinctively evocative paintings and sculptures. Her works often explored themes of femininity and dreams, characterized by their dreamlike imagery and abstract forms. Tanning gained attention with her painting 'Birthday' in 1942, which became emblematic of her style and surrealist focus. In addition to painting, she produced textiles and set designs, reflecting her versatile artistic talents. During her lifetime, she exhibited her work extensively, garnering recognition and accolades within the art community.
Continue ReadingThomas Grey
English politician and Chancellor
Born
1654 372 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1720 306 years ago — 66 years old
Second Earl of Stamford served in various political roles during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Held the position of Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, overseeing land and finances of the Duchy, particularly during significant political events in England. Actively engaged in parliamentary proceedings and championed causes relevant to the governance of the time. Contributed to political discourse and policy implementation, influencing legislative decisions.
Continue Reading11th Dalai Lama
Tibetan spiritual leader and reformer
Born
November 1st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1856 170 years ago — 17 years old
Served as the spiritual leader of Tibet from 1838 until death in 1856. Held significant influence over Tibetan Buddhism and governance during a period of cultural and political change. Implemented various governmental reforms aimed at modernizing the administration. Promoted education and cultural preservation in Tibet, fostering a dialogue between traditional practices and contemporary needs.
Continue ReadingGiant Baba
Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
January 23rd, 1938 88 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1999 27 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in professional wrestling, made significant contributions as a wrestler and trainer. Co-founded All Japan Pro Wrestling in 1972, which became a paramount promotion in the industry. Held the World Heavyweight Championship multiple times and was recognized for a unique style that blended traditional Japanese wrestling with elements of American wrestling. Transitioned from an active competitor to a promoter role, guiding the careers of many future wrestling stars. His legacy continues through the promotion and his influence on the global wrestling landscape.
Continue ReadingAmbrose Rookwood
Gunpowder Plot conspirator
Born
1578 448 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1606 420 years ago — 28 years old
Involved in a failed plot to assassinate King James I and blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605. Rookwood participated in the conspiracy with other notable figures, including Guy Fawkes. After the plot was discovered, he was arrested and later executed. Rookwood was known for his commitment to the cause, believing that the assassination would restore Catholic rule in England.
Continue ReadingJohn Bosco
Italian priest and educator, founder of the Salesians
Born
August 16th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1888 138 years ago — 72 years old
A priest and educator dedicated to the welfare of youth, established the Salesian Society to provide education and spiritual guidance. Focused on the disadvantaged, advocated for preventive education emphasizing reason, religion, and loving-kindness as a framework for teaching. Significant contributions to church and education, influencing modern pedagogical methods.
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